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Top Ten Tips for Second Shooting
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| On our way to this past weekend's wedding in San Diego, JD and I had a great opportunity to talk about anything and everything. I asked if he liked my trimmed bangs (yes)...what he wanted for lunch (pizza)...and who his favorite wife was (me). We then started talking about second photographers at weddings and the important role they play. I make no qualms admitting I have the best second shooter in the world (nay, the UNIVERSE), but he told me he often gets asked for advice for second shooting. I found this hilarious. He just stared blankly back at me. Apparently, he was serious. Over pizza in Mission Beach, I asked him what his Top Ten List for Second Shooters would be and I was impressed with his responses, so I decided to have him guest blog today. Holllllla! |
Here's his Top Ten list of advice for second shooters on a wedding day...just without the pepperoni falling off the slice and getting in our way of conversation...
10. Dress Appropriately
Don't be afraid to ask the main photographer what to wear on the wedding day. Some weddings are casual, others more formal. The most important thing is to always be a reflection of the main photographer's attire and blend in with guests as much as possible. I always dress according to the Three Piece Rule: Wearing a tie/jacket/pants or tie/vest/pants...and I guess a jacket/shirt/pants works as well, but Jasmine definitely prefers a tie!
9. Same Day Slideshow
If the main photographer creates a same-day slideshow to display at the reception, make sure and find a nearby work station (i.e. chair and outlet). I usually find a place just outside of the reception so we can hear what's going on and be easily accessible.
8. Gather the Family
It's so important to help the main photographer during family formal photos. There's a really short amount of time to execute the photos, so be sure to find grandma and Uncle Kevin (who's usually at the bar) so the entire group isn't waiting for one person.
7. Taking Care of Vendors
During a wedding day, I usually don't have time to cultivate friendships, but I always make sure to include every vendor throughout the day. If they need anything, I offer assistance. If the vendor dinner is served, I try to make sure everyone knows. It's small things that ensure everyone feels like we're on the same team...and there's a high probability we'll work together again in the future, so make sure to have everyone's back.
6. Offer to Carry Bags
I'm kinda particular about this because it reminds me of my role as a second shooter...to make life easier for the main shooter. I'm not saying every second photographer MUST carry the bags, but it's nice to offer. I always carry and maintain the main photo bag on wedding days and I know Jasmine appreciates it.
5. Get Water
Here in Southern California, peak wedding season is during the hottest time of the year, so keeping ourselves hydrated is very important. I always make sure Jasmine has a cold glass of water waiting for her: 1. Before the ceremony; 2. After the ceremony; and 3. After cocktail hour. Usually these are the hottest (and most stressful) times outdoors because there's so much juggling going on for her. Every time she finishes her glass, she's recharged (and in a better mood!).
4. Smile
Jasmine usually has to remind me of this one...and when she does, I usually give her a sarcastic smile. In all honesty, I know she's right. Jasmine reminds me that guests are looking at us even when we don't realize it and we're a reflection of the bride's desire of have us document her dream day. If we look hot, unhappy, tired, or annoyed, it'll be a poor reflection on our brand. I'll admit is sometimes hard to smile after hearing We Are Family...I've got all my sisters with me! for the thousandth time that month, but I then smile knowing Jasmine's probably off dancing with the DJ! (just kidding...i had to throw this in here!)
3. Find New Angles
Don't shoot over the main photographer's shoulder! When I first started shooting with Jasmine, I shot behind her and captured--basically--the same photo as she did. Okay, just not as cool. She finally explained that she didn't need another version of her photo...she needs an entirely photo of the same moment. I'll admit this is harder than it seems, but I know she appreciates creativity and a different photo from the exact same moment.
2. NEVER PASS OUT YOUR BUSINESS CARD
One of the first weddings we photographed together, we had another photographer tag along with us. The night was flowing nicely until I overheard the third shooter pass his/her business card to a wedding guest...and passed his/her studio name along. I can't explain how rude this is. On a wedding day, a second and third photographer is just that...an accompanying photographer to the main photographer's studio. If a guest asks for a business card from a second shooter (which happens often!), the second shooter should always pass along the main photographer's business card. Period. The end.
1. Leave Ego at the Door
This one doesn't need much of an explanation as it's more a rule for life in general. Just remember, as a second shooter, your number one goal is to shoot the best you can and make the main photographer's life easier...even if it means missing the best photo opportunities at the wedding. Yes, everyone prefers to shoot the bride getting ready, the bride and groom portraits, and getting the First Kiss standing in the center of the aisle. But chances are, it ain't gonna be like that. So own what you got and make it work. In the words of my main photographer and mentor, "Just be FABULOUS!" ;) |
    
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OC SmugMug Meeting : Becker
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T he first time I met Becker three years ago, I was totally shy and nervous. I followed his blog for months, so when the time came to get to know him better over lunch with a small group of photographers, I was tongue-tied and wee bit stupid. I think I mentioned my love for tadpoles, kazoos, and my pocket protector collection. Yeah, I was pretty cool. Back then, I promised myself that if I was ever given a platform to share knowledge, I'd do it as freely and candidly as Becker. Lo and behold, God gave me a soapbox on the web and I was honored to ask my good friend to speak at last night's SmugMug meeting.
Over 250 photographers showed up to hear Becker speak and the Orange County meeting was ultra fab. The community everyone is dedicated to building is flourishing and I can't wait to see what's in store for the future! Many thanks to Mesa Verde County Club in Costa Mesa for hosting our large group and I couldn't be more thankful for their beautiful venue and amazing staff!
Here are a few photos from the event....like a good son, Becker saved a few seats for his family... |
| I was SO blown away by a few photographers who brought goodies for the meeting...out of their accord, they brightened everyone's night and made my belly smile... |
| SmugMug Co-Founder, Chris "Baldy" MacAskill, joined the group and discussed SEO for a bit... |
| ...Then I got to the mic and read an old blog post about the first time I met Becker... |
| ...And then we both got a little teary-eyed... |
| ...No, really...Becker was choked up! Yes, this photo is unfocused, but--ehh--I love it. Becker is in the background dabbing his eyes and I'm laughing...that's what happens when I'm embarrassed... |
| Becker doing his thang... |
| Like usual, a large group of photographers party like rockstars in the parking lot. What can I say? We're fun. Don't hate. ;) |
| Thanks to everyone who showed up and made last night a success! Becker treated everyone to free ice cream at Coldstone Creamery, so the night ended on a sweet note for sure! I'm honored to have met so many new photographers and I can't thank everyone for their support! |
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Thankfulness [And The Winner of the Contest]
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T he past few days have been filled with many things: sunblock, a warm drive to Palm Springs, long dinners, shopping, laughing. But beyond the surface, my mind was constantly filled with thankfulness. And by nothing of my own accord, but, rather, because of all of YOU. Every day since I announced the Leather Craftsmen Contest on my blog last week, my inbox was filled with blog comments brimming with thankful sentiments. Some where painful, others funny, but the core remained the same: To be thankful is to be wholly content with one's station in life.
Oh, Internet, thank you for reminding me of just how thankful I am. Here are a few comments that made me smile:
Julie Kjorsvik: I am thankful for shoes.....after all, shoes are reflection of each occassion in your life. :-)
Renee Camacho: I'm thankful for my ex-boyfriend breaking up with me (he's crazy) and allowing me the opportunity to find someone who will not only love me but will love my passion for photography!
Kaitlynn: Smores & dirty feet. I just rolled in from a very needed relaxing camping trip.
L Finau: I am grateful for ELMO.. He has been very useful these past couple of months.. My kids have been occupied with him while I edit photos and update my blog not to mention follow your blogs as well as the blogs of all the other great photographers.. Yep thats it.. ELMO will win the award for what Im grateful for.
Syreena B: I am thankful that God made babies be born with all gums and no teeth... 1. that would just be plain freaky and 2. there is just something about that toothless smile that sends my heart afloat ;)
Ashley: I'm thankful for all the little things we used to take for granted: my old car that gets us where we need to go, our first apartment, not having all the money in the world, the tunnel and not just the light at the end of it.
Frances Ramos: I thank God for my taste buds.
fiona andersen: Ok I am grateful for CHEESE... I LOVE cheese, you can melt it, eat it straight out of the pack, put it in a sandwich, make souffle, fondue!!!! I love CHEESE.... must be something special as the moon is made out of it!!!!! ;) Thank you lord for CHEESE
Emily Dobson Photography: I am thankful for the trash man. No one knows him, but without him, life would be a mess! :)
mel : i am grateful, that i can still say 'i love you', even after being hurt. i am grateful to hear it said back.
Robert Tran: I am thankful for Steve Jobs. THANK YOU!!! Without him the technology industry would look very different. Imagine a world with no Ipod, with no Iphone. I can't. Can u? Here's to you Steve Jobs. (who by the way allowed me to post this comment by the deadline via Iphone.). P.S. Thank you for inspiring us to think differently.
Melissa Oholendt: I am grateful for my flat iron. Without it I would look like a poor-man's Farrah Fawcett and I'm pretty sure no one would hire me....ever.
Matt Parks: the lingering smell of fresh ground coffee seeping up the stairs inviting one to join his lovely wife of years in one of those "just fits right" hugs, where her shoulder slides perfectly under mine, my hands seems to be the "just right' size to rub her back and she's "just tall" enough to pull her chin up towards mine for a delightfully perfect good morning kiss. That is what I'm most thankful for this morning. The "just right" moments one savor over a Saturday morning cup of coffee.
mindy@STUDIO6.23: the color yellow...... aqua, orange and fushia, too....... laughing till it hurts....... crazy adventures...... fields of sunflowers..... sprinkles on ice cream...... music that moves me....... giggles from my children...... cool summer nights....... spontaneity..... ginormous balloons......... making out wtih my hot husband, (oh yeah!)........ kindred spirits......... dancing the night away........ SURPRISES...... singing in the shower......... serving others....... gas station cappuccinos....... my life.
Jen: I am thankful for being laid off in March of this year. At first it was devastating. But slowly I began to see the possibilities open wide for me. I didn't have to just find a job for the sake of finding a job. I could reexamine my entire life (as painful as it was) to see where this new path could take me. I rediscovered my love for photography. I may not change careers for photography yet but I'm sure enjoying the journey. Cheers!
Daniel Eskue: I'm thankful I don't have to read all the comments on what people are thankful for ; )
Caitlin: I am thankful for the smell of a freshly blown out match. There is something so comforting about that smell. A candle was just lit because company is coming over. Or maybe just to set the mood. Or maybe it is to light the grill for a family get together. Whatever the case, it always seems to be joyful, and soothing.
karen c.: I am thankful for Dove Chocolate, without which it'd be impossible to patiently raise a two year old.
Ashley Smith: I'm thankful for Hodgkin's Lymphoma. I know it's odd to be thankful for cancer but I am. I was diagnosed at 29yo. and at stage 3. The journey it has put me on has made me realize how much I need to be thankful for and all the blessings I have big or small. I appreciate everything and am a way happier person. I think that's why I like to hug everyone. I just like to show everyone how much I appreciate them. No matter who they are.
Isaac Wu: I'm thankful for my socks...sure, barefeet on the sand is nice, but honestly, tell me, the feeling of a new thick and cushy sock is heaven sent.
anna : I am thankful for sunsets & margaritas!
Atlanta Wedding Photographer Lauren Wright: I am SO thankful for treadmills and elliptical machines with built in TVs. Now I can work it out AND watch designers make it work on Project Runway.. at the same time! :)
And if you were to ask me what I was thankful for today, I'd have to say I am thankful coming home from a trip to find bouquets of flowers strewn around a clean house from my lovely husband... |
And the lucky winner of the FREE Leather Craftsmen Companion Album is Otto Rascon and what he's thankful for is as follows:
Otto Rascon: I am so thankful for my pillow. Yes, my pillow. It is soft and cushy and it makes me go to my happy place every night. It also supports my wife's head when we watch a movie and she lays her head on my lap. I also use it to pillow fight with my 2 year old daughter. My pillow. I am thankful for it.
Happy Thursday! |
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Chelsey and Danny : Wedding
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© Jasmine Star. This post cannot be republished without permission. Stealing makes me sad. |
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T here's something about the way they look at each other. A look of knowing, time, and trust. A look of I've been kissing you since junior high school...and I still want more. Danny and Chelsey married last weekend at Rancho Bernardo Inn in San Diego, but the wedding was merely a formal declaration of what existed in their hearts. Commitment and love. They spent the day surrounded by friends and family and danced until the night turned to morning. And remained in each others' arms the entire night.
Each wedding entry is dedicated to my perspective of a couple's special day, but when I received an email from Chelsey a little over a month ago in response to this blog post, I felt her voice set the tone of the beauty of their love...
If I wasn't so reserved; believe it or not, I would have left this comment on your beautiful blog. It almost makes me mad when the alarm goes off at 5:45am every morning and I have to get ready for work and the two most beautiful creatures on the planet get to continue to snuggle arm in arm under 1200 thread count Egyptian cotton sheets and a luxurious duvet as I rise to jump in the shower! Of course by "two most beautiful creatures" I mean my gorgeous future husband Danny, and my sweet baby, seven pound poodle Presley. Every morning I open my eyes, reach down to the foot of my bed, grab my sweet baby girl, kiss her little cotton top head and say, "good mornin' love bug." When I jump out of bed and hit the shower, turn back to get one last glance at pure comfort and relaxation and see my little bundle of fluffy champagne goodness and the sweet latin tattooed flesh of Danny, I realize... "Life is Good"
Chelsey and Danny, I hope you're living it up in Costa Rica and enjoying your honeymoon! You are two of the most special people and I'm honored to have spent more time with your families and celebrated your love. Yes, I could go on and on about the details and how everything came together perfectly for your wedding, but I'll save that for another email. I, however, just want to express how happy I am for you and I know the future is bright because you have each other at your side. Much Love and Appreciation...J*
Something old, something new...something borrowed, something blue... |
| I loved Chelsey's Unveiled birdcage veil for her wedding...such a cool retro vibe... |
| The thing I love most about Chelsey and Danny is their open emotions. They're always laughing, hugging, or kissing and when they opted to see each other before the wedding ceremony, I was beyond thrilled! Having a First Look provides plenty of time for photos and offers such a smooth layout to the wedding day. Here are there first moments together on their wedding day... |
| Work it out, Chelsey, work IT OUT! |
| Chelsey brought along pennies so they could make a wedding wish at a nearby fountain...so cute! |
| We ventured inside Rancho Bernardo Inn for a few more wedding pictures and I loved the earthy environment of the hotel... |
| One of my favorite wedding photos of the day...all five girls on the left are My Girls. We met at Taeler's wedding last year and I couldn't lurve Taeler, Liz, Chelsey, Lindsey, and Shannon more than I do! Jennifer (on the right) was trying hard to fit in, but My Girls were giving her a hard time. Heckling and ostracizing was involved, but it all ended on a good note...the proof is in the photo! ;) |
| Many, many thanks to the fabulous Jennifer of Jennifer Renee Wedding Planning...she and her team did an amazing job with orchestrating the day and I couldn't have been more pleased! One of my favorite aspects of the coverage was that the bride was assigned a personal assistant all day to ensure there was constant communication and the day flowed perfectly. I LOVED it! :) |
| The vintage car is actually Chelsey's dad's car and it was such a special element to their wedding day! |
| Chelsey sure knows how to make a Grand Entrance... |
| Look at this fabulous couple...aren't they hot?! ;) Some of my blog readers may remember Taeler and Dana from their wedding last year, and their love is only growing. Literally. Taeler is pregnant and is due this November...I'm thrilled for their family! (I'm also thrilled for this wedding referral, but we won't mention that here!) ;) Love you T+D! |
| This photo just makes me so happy, so I'll end this post here. With Danny's smile and love written on his face... |
L ast week--shortly after I returned from vacation in Puerto Rico--I battled a cold. And not your friendly cough, sniffle, cough garden style variety cold. It was like my lungs were inspired by a beat up 1943 Ford truck. Like my lungs were trying to win a muffler contest and the rumble in my chest was legit. Just ask JD...he thought he was sleeping next to a smoking trucker most nights. It was classy.
I had a meeting scheduled with Lawrence of Tofurious, and I didn't want to cancel because our schedules finally worked after weeks of hits and misses. So me and the Ford truck nestled in my chest decided to show up and meet for a Search Engine Optimization seminar. Everything was fine and dandy...until...until I caught a cough in my throat. Don't know what that is? Well, it's a cough that's STUCK IN YOUR THROAT. I tried coughing, but I couldn't really breathe. I wanted to drink a little tea, but I was coughing. And then I couldn't stop. Like, really, I couldn't stop coughing if my life depended on it. So, there I sat coughing--looking much a like a cat with a hairball in my throat--until I had to excuse myself (via sign language) and step outside. It was classy.
The good news is that Lawrence was a total gem and acted like everyone gets coughing attacks when they meet him for the first time. Oh, what? Oh, yes coughing is just my thing. I have that affect on women.
Lawrence and Lan Bui pretty much rocked my world. The SEO workshop was nothing short of awesome and if you're interested in learning more about understanding optimizing your web presence, definitely check out his upcoming workshops...they're gonna be fabulous! Here's a short video Lan shot shortly after the seminar was commenced.
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I'm hoping Lawrence will visit an OC SmugMug meeting in the near future, so if/when he does, be sure to clear your calendar because he's pretty much a web genius! Speaking of SmugMug meetings, I hope to see you THIS THURSDAY at 7pm for our next meeting...it should be pretty epic. I'm just sayin'.... To RSVP, CLICK HERE to let me know!
Happy Monday |
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